World No. 4 Amanda Anisimova has left fans stunned after announcing her withdrawal from the upcoming Korea Open Tennis Championships in Seoul. Just days after celebrating the biggest milestone of her career – a runner-up finish at the US Open and a historic debut in the WTA Top 5, Anisimova confirmed the heartbreaking news in a social media post.
“I’m so sad to miss Korea this year, as I really enjoyed my time there last year. I really hope to be back next year,” she wrote.
For fans who have followed her rollercoaster journey, the timing couldn’t be more bittersweet. The 23-year-old American has battled through ups and downs, including injuries and mental health breaks, only to return stronger and produce some of the best tennis of her life in New York. Her thrilling run to the final, where she fell just short against Aryna Sabalenka, reminded the world why Anisimova has long been seen as one of the brightest stars of her generation.
The withdrawal also comes after Anisimova’s fairytale 2024 debut in Seoul, where she upset top-10 seed Yulia Putintseva before being forced to retire in the second round. Fans in Korea were eagerly awaiting her return, especially with the tournament lineup featuring names like Iga Swiatek, Beatriz Haddad Maia, Clara Tauson, and Daria Kasatkina.
Adding to the surprise, fellow American McCartney Kessler also pulled out of the Korea Open due to scheduling changes after being nominated to the U.S. Billie Jean King Cup team. That leaves Anisimova’s absence even more noticeable as Team USA prepares for the Finals in Shenzhen later this month.
Despite the disappointment, Anisimova’s star continues to rise. Breaking into the Top 5 is a massive statement, and her fearless tennis at the US Open suggests that she’s just getting started. While the Korea Open crowd will miss her presence this year, fans worldwide will be keeping their eyes on her next chapter. Will 2026 finally be the year she claims her first Grand Slam title?
One thing is certain: Amanda Anisimova is no longer just a rising star, she’s officially a force to be reckoned with on the WTA Tour.
